HELPFUL INFORMATION

Helpful Information: FAQ

HOW DO ONLINE CLASSES WORK?

You need to register with Zoom.us and then use the link that I will send you for the classes you sign up to.

Remember not to eat a heavy meal at least 2 hours before your class.

WHAT EQUIPMENT DO I NEED?

You will need a yoga mat and maybe a yoga block or a strap if you have tight hamstrings or need to work more on your balance.
Practising from home or the office means you can also substitute books for yoga blocks or scarves or the belt from a dressing gown instead of a yoga strap. All are equally good alternatives.

WHERE SHOULD I PRACTICE?

Wherever you have enough space - it could be your living room, bedroom or office. Set up your space before the session starts. Ideally you want a quiet space and make sure any hazards (cats, dogs, children and furniture) are a safe distance away! Make it your space - maybe light a candle or soften the lighting.

WHAT SORT OF YOGA MAT DO I NEED?

Yoga mats are fairly straightforward although there are a lot out there! Ideally you should be looking at mats which are 3-6mm thick. The length of a standard mat is usually 68" so if you are tall you may want to look at an extra long option. Prices vary from £10 to over £100 but you don't need to spend a fortune and can buy a very decent mat from £40-£60. Lots more useful information on yoga mats can be found here.

WHAT TYPES OF YOGA ARE THERE?

There are many different styles of yoga, varying in the areas they focus on (either focusing on the postures themselves or on your breathing, or a bit of both). They often vary in pace, from more vigorous power classes designed to increase the heart rate, to more restorative classes which are intended to focus more on relaxation and meditation. It’s essentially about finding your own preference. What is right for your body and what you enjoy.

HATHA: Can be a slower practice, which teaches you to hold postures while focusing on the breath.

YIN: Postures are typically held for 3-5 minutes at a time - a more meditative practice that targets deep tissues and improves flexibility.

IYENGAR: Focuses on use of props such as blocks and straps to encourage proper alignment.

HOT YOGA: Combines breathing exercises with a vigorous series of poses practiced at 40 degrees Celsius.

VINYASA FLOW: Connects breathing with a quick change between postures, allowing you to flow between each posture. This creates a fun but intense class designed to increase your heart rate.

ASHTANGA: Has six different series of specifically sequenced poses.

KUNDALINI: A more spiritual practice focusing on singing, chanting and meditating, as well as intense breathing exercises.